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Administrators tell coach" resign or be fired"

BLACKFOOT — Blackfoot High School Basketball Coach Jonathan Packer said he was informed this week by the administration at the school that they will not seek to renew his coaching contract next year. Packer coaches boys' varsity basketball.
Packer said he met with Ben Speelmon, the man hired in January to serve as an educational consultant in the absence of Principal Blaine McInelly, and Athletic Director Brian Flake Tuesday afternoon.
He said in that meeting Speelmon asked him to resign from his coaching position. The other option was that the administration would recommend to the Blackfoot School Board not to renew his coaching contract next year.
"I'm not resigning," Packer said.
According to board policy 448.1, employees are not entitled to automatic reappointment to a coaching position for the next year or season. If the board does not reissue a supplemental contract to a certificated employee, the board will give written notice to the employee describing reasons for the decision not to reissue the contract.
If the Blackfoot School Board does not reissue Packer's contract, he has the right to an informal review where he can explain why he disagrees with the board's decision.
Superintendent Scott Crane said he could not comment specifically about Packer's contract, but said no decision has been made.
"The board has made no decision concerning anyone's extra-curricular contracts," Crane said.
Speelmon also would not comment.
Packer said he believes this pending action will not affect his position as an English teacher at Blackfoot High School. He also said he is proud of the students he coached this past season.